Pete Alonso, who remains unsigned in free agency, receives advice from Mets great David Wright.

Before hitting free agency, Alonso spent six years with the Mets.

Pete Alonso, who remains unsigned in free agency, receives advice from Mets great David Wright.
Pete Alonso, who remains unsigned in free agency, receives advice from Mets great David Wright.

Pete Alonso, a first baseman who has spent his entire career with the Mets, received advice from Mets legend David Wright.

Wright stated at a press conference on Wednesday that it is a distinct sensation to be drafted, developed, and playing for the team that provided your initial opportunity.

"When wearing the jersey, there is a sense of pride, possibly even more so. I hope he doesn't forget this and stays focused. Regardless, I have never criticized a player for pursuing their highest earning potential."

Pete Alonso in action
New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso runs the bases after hitting a home run in the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies during Game 2 of the NLDS of the 2024 MLB Playoffs at Citizens Bank Park.  (Kyle Ross/Imagn Images)

The seven-time All-Star spent his entire career with the Mets from 2004-2018.

The team has declared that they will retire Wright's No. 5 jersey on July 19.

Since his debut, Alonso, 30, has consistently occupied a position in the heart of the Mets' batting lineup.

In 2019, Alonso was named the National League rookie of the year and has since been named an All-Star four times and won the home run derby twice.

David Wright and Tom Seaver
New York Mets captain David Wright, right, greets Mets Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver after Seaver threw the first pitch prior to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game at Citi Field July 16, 2013. (Tyson Trish/Staff Photographer)

Since Alonso's debut, only Judge has hit more home runs (232) than Alonso (226).

Last season, the durable first baseman played every game.

Last season, Alonso hit .240 with 34 home runs and 88 RBIs for the Mets, and he hit .273 with four home runs in 13 playoff games.

Pete Alonso celebrates
New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso celebrates defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game 5 of the NLCS of the 2024 MLB playoffs at Citi Field.  (Brad Penner/Imagn Images)

After many teams filled the first baseman position with new players, the market for first basemen has decreased.

The Houston Astros signed Christian Walker, the Washington Nationals traded for Nathaniel Lowe, the Arizona Diamondbacks traded for Josh Naylor, the Cleveland Guardians signed Carlos Santana, and the New York Yankees signed Paul Goldschmidt.

If Alonso joins the Mets again, he will be only 26 home runs away from surpassing Strawberry and becoming the team's all-time home run leader.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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by Ryan Canfield

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